Your Summer Guide in Israel

Ready to enjoy the summer in Israel? First get ready to sweat. Then, slather on your sunscreen, grab your two massive water bottles, and experience the summer like a local. Before going out for the day, partially lower your trisim so the sun doesn’t heat up your home. Here’s your guide to enjoying the summer in Israel.

Become a regular at the beach

Best way to survive the heat? Pack your tote and escape to the beach – be in the Mediterranean (Check the jelly fish situation) the Kinneret, the Red or Dead seas.  Go for a dip, ride the waves, or park your plastic chair right on the shore. Most of Israel’s beaches are free – choose a family friendly one, a separate beach (men/women), or a dog friendly beach where you can bring your furry family member. When you’re ready to head home, spend a few minutes rinsing off your feet and shaking out your towels. But no matter how hard you try to rid yourself of every little grain, you won’t. Embrace the sand. If you’re lucky enough to be at the beach more than once this summer, it will be your constant companion.

Cool down with a cold drink

Israel might be all about the cafe culture, but when summer hits, get ready to replace your hot espresso or cafe hafuch with an ice cafe. Just keep in mind: ice cafes are those slushy, sugary drinks with a hint of coffee flavor. Did you mean to order an American ice coffee? That’s what we call a cafe kar! Not a big coffee drinker? Unwrap a frozen Krembo. Whether you eat the cookie or cream part first, it will be sure to cool you off. And of course, don’t forget to try Israel’s many innovative ice cream flavors, from watermelon and feta to hummus. Or just order a chocolate gelato. You can’t go wrong with that. Whatever your drink of choice – make sure to keep well hydrated!

Go on  a water hike

Hikes are part of being Israeli – and almost everyone owns either Teva or Shoresh sandals for the summer, or Blundstones for any time of year! Head to the Galil for tiyulim that combine both Israel’s natural beauty and its glorious water. Just when you’re starting to feel a little faint, you’ll find yourself approaching a refreshing stream. Go on, get your feet wet. Looking for a bit more water? Head to Ein Gedi, where you’ll stand under the waterfalls and feel the crisp water pummel your back, or to the Jordan River Valley, for some intense rafting. Just be sure to hold on tight!  For listing and details, check out the Israel National Parks website.

Celebrate at a summer festival

With no rain on the horizon, summers are the time when art, music and dance festivals pop up throughout Israel. In Jerusalem, Hutzot Hayotzer Festival takes place in the Sultan’s Pool–a historic valley just a stone’s throw from the Old City–and brings together dozens of artists to showcase their crafts. Nightly concerts feature some of Israel’s greatest musicians, their beautiful tunes resounding off of the Old City’s walls. For events in your city, go to your municipality website.

Splash around in a water park or pool

The best way to deal with the summer heat is to spend the season getting soaked. Head to one of Israels water parks, or spend your day at a local pool.

Escape the heat

When you’ve had enough of the sun, find a place that has the air conditioning on high. Spots like museums, malls, etc. are a great place to cool off. If you’re looking to spend your day doing something meaningful, sign up to volunteer. Serve food at a soup kitchen or assemble packages for Israeli soldiers.

Take your kids to work

Most Israeli children don’t attend summer-long sleepaway camps. Instead, they fill their summers with different sports and arts and craft chugim or short kaytanot (daycamps) during the month of July. These are often run by your child’s school (lower grades), municipality, or private organizers. If you’re in a crunch finding something for your kids to do in between activities, don’t worry. Many Israeli companies are very family-oriented and won’t mind if your kids come to work with you every now and then. Some workplaces even run their own camps for employees’ kids!

There is an end in sight

Most schools in Israel start on September 1st. Some high schools may start earlier (last week in August) and the Haredi school system schools may start the first of Elul.

*Last Updated July 6, 2026*